Side hustle copywriter for small businesses

Local small business owners, startups and online shops that need clear marketing text but have no in-house writer.

A flat fee per project, such as a home page or a set of emails. Some writers offer small monthly packages for repeat work.

• Clear, persuasive writing
• Editing your own work
• Listening to what a client needs
• Meeting deadlines

• Check whether your city or county requires a business license, even for home-based work
• Use a written agreement covering scope, number of revisions, payment terms and who owns the final text
• Set aside money for self-employment taxes and check IRS rules on quarterly estimated payments
• Check your lease or HOA rules if clients will visit your home (most work can be done remotely)
• Ask clients for a deposit upfront to reduce the risk of unpaid work

Startup costs are typically around $0 to $500, depending on whether you already have a computer and what you spend on a simple portfolio site or writing tools. These are estimates, so spend only what you need at first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on how many projects you take on and your rates. Plan on at least about 5 hours a week, and ask for a deposit upfront to reduce the risk of unpaid work.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license, even for home-based work. Use a written agreement covering scope, revisions, payment terms and ownership, and check IRS rules on self-employment taxes and quarterly estimated payments.